Nets at Magic
THE STORY: The big rumors prior to Thursday had Dwight Howard landing with the New Jersey Nets. Now that the All-Star center has decided to waive his right to opt out of his contract this summer and stay with the Orlando Magic, at least fans will not have to immediately see him on the other bench when the Nets come to town Friday. The surging Magic have won six of their last seven at home.
TV: 7 p.m. ET, YES (Nets), SunSports (Magic)
ABOUT THE NETS (15-29): New Jersey’s plan to pair Howard with Deron Williams took a big hit with Howard’s announcement. The team was still active at the trade deadline, sending Mehmet Okur and Shawne Williams along with a draft pick to the Portland Trail Blazers for veteran forward Gerald Wallace. Deron Williams, who can opt out of his contract this summer, has missed the last three games with a sore right calf. After losing the first two without their star, the Nets recovered to post a 98-84 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday. NBA Development League reclamation project Gerald Green continues to impress, scoring 26 points against the Raptors and averaging 21 over the last three games.
ABOUT THE MAGIC (28-16): Howard did not sign an extension, meaning next season will be a another dominated by trade talk, but at least he is assured of making this playoff run with Orlando. The Magic have been coming together recently with wins over Chicago, Indiana and Miami in succession before a 122-111 loss at San Antonio on Wednesday. Whatever trade cloud has hung over the franchise has not affected Howard on the court. The 26-year old is averaging 27.1 points and 15.1 rebounds in eight games this month. The Magic sit third in the East.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. Williams is day-to-day but is unlikely to play Friday.
2. Orlando has taken the first two meetings this season by an average of 16.5 points.
3. Howard has totaled 36 points and 41 rebounds against New Jersey in 2011-12.